Hyundai’s foray into the three-row electric SUV segment will be marked by the Ioniq 9, a departure from its previously expected name, the Ioniq 7. The decision reflects Hyundai’s strategy to capitalize on Kia’s success with the EV9.
The Ioniq 9 joins Hyundai’s lineup of dedicated EVs, which includes the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6, solidifying the brand’s position as a key player in key markets.
See also: Hyundai’s IONIQ 7 Electric SUV Set to Debut at Busan Motor Show
Data from S&P Global indicates that Hyundai ranked as the fourth best-selling EV brand in the US last year, capturing 4.5% of the market. When factoring in Kia and Genesis, Hyundai surpassed American automakers Ford and GM’s Chevy, trailing only Tesla.
While competitors like Ford and GM have scaled back their EV efforts, Hyundai is pushing forward. The brand is set to unveil its first three-row electric SUV this June.
Originally showcased as the SEVEN concept at the 2021 LA Auto Show, reports now suggest that Hyundai’s three-row electric SUV will be known as the Ioniq 9.
See also: Hyundai’s Three-Row IONIQ 7 Electric SUV Spotted and Size-Compared with Kia’s EV9
Although Hyundai has not officially confirmed the name change, a spokesperson stated, “More details will be shared on the next Ioniq model closer to its launch.”
The Ioniq 9 follows Kia’s successful launch of its own three-row electric SUV, the EV9, which garnered pre-orders from all 50 states within two months of opening reservations.
Sales of the Kia EV9 are on the rise in the US, with 1,113 units sold in December and another 1,408 in January.
See also: Hyundai Ioniq 7 will use a large 7 seater SUV configuration
Built on Hyundai’s dedicated E-GMP platform, the EV9 offers 42.8 inches of rear legroom, surpassing competitors such as the Cadillac Escalade, 3-row Land Rover Range Rover P400, and Mercedes EQS. Additionally, the third row provides more shoulder and hip room than Tesla’s Model X.
